We investigated the effects of silymarin on liver and heart health under oxidative stress from paracetamol. In a controlled study with 28 male mice, silymarin showed a strong potential to reduce liver injury markers and improve liver enzyme levels after treatment.
Histopathological assessments revealed less tissue damage and inflammation in mice treated with silymarin compared to those that only received paracetamol. Overall, these findings demonstrate that silymarin is a promising option to help protect the liver and heart from oxidative stress-related injury.
Read More
8
Lipid balance and liver protection
Silybin A from reprograms lipid metabolism to induce a cell fate-dependent class switch from triglycerides to phospholipids.
We explored how silybin A, a key ingredient from silybum marianum, impacts liver health. Through studies on liver cells and mice, we discovered that silybin A effectively lowers triglyceride levels while boosting essential phospholipids, supporting a healthy lipid balance.
Our findings suggest that silybin offers protective benefits against liver damage, particularly in cases of mild metabolic imbalance. However, its effectiveness seems limited in more severe liver disease scenarios, highlighting the nuances of its liver-protective properties.
Read More
8
Silymarin showed enhanced liver protection
Evaluating the therapeutic effect of different forms of silymarin on liver status and expression of some genes involved in fat metabolism, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory in older laying hens.
We explored how different forms of silymarin, derived from milk thistle seeds, affect liver health in older hens. In a study with 70 hens, various treatments were given over 12 weeks, including control groups.
We found that higher doses of nano-silymarin and lecithinized silymarin showed significant benefits, such as improved liver enzyme activity and decreased fatty liver symptoms. However, silymarin was less effective at lower doses, which indicates that careful dosing is crucial for optimal results in managing liver issues.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Normalised liver enzymes
24 people found this helpful
This product has helped my wife with liver disease more than any prescription drug. After her liver transplant, we struggled to manage high liver enzymes, but milk thistle significantly lowered them, surprising her transplant team.
Read More
9
Supports liver health
23 people found this helpful
The best product for maintaining a healthy liver! Milk Thistle, standardised to 80% Silymarin, in doses of around 600 mg per day provides therapeutic benefits, especially for liver disease conditions like alcohol-related liver disease and Hepatitis. It's crucial to consult a qualified physician for serious conditions. Standardised Milk Thistle is highly beneficial for those on prescription drugs or exposed to environmental toxins. I have used Nature's Way for five years, and although I believe they are top-notch, I often opt for Swanson due to its affordability. I take 3-4 capsules daily on an empty stomach to support my liver health.
Read More
9
Lowers cholesterol
15 people found this helpful
This great product for liver health contains milk thistle, which helps lower LDL cholesterol and reduces insulin resistance. It's also an antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory.
We investigated the effects of silymarin on liver and heart health under oxidative stress from paracetamol. In a controlled study with 28 male mice, silymarin showed a strong potential to reduce liver injury markers and improve liver enzyme levels after treatment.
Histopathological assessments revealed less tissue damage and inflammation in mice treated with silymarin compared to those that only received paracetamol. Overall, these findings demonstrate that silymarin is a promising option to help protect the liver and heart from oxidative stress-related injury.
Read More
9
Silymarin improves liver health in mice
Supplementation of Silymarin Alone or in Combination with Salvianolic Acids B and Puerarin Regulates Gut Microbiota and Its Metabolism to Improve High-Fat Diet-Induced NAFLD in Mice.
We investigated how silymarin, along with other natural compounds, affects non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in mice. Over 16 weeks, mice on a high-fat diet received silymarin supplements, which significantly improved liver health and reduced fat buildup.
Notably, these changes were linked to beneficial shifts in gut bacteria and their metabolites. The study shows that silymarin may play a key role in enhancing liver function through its positive influence on gut microbiota, offering promising insights for NAFLD treatment.
Read More
9
Effective liver protection with nano-SM
Mitigation of intrahepatic cholestasis induced by 17α-ethinylestradiol via nanoformulation of Silybum marianum L.
We investigated the potential of a specially formulated version of Silybum marianum, known as nano-SM, to combat liver damage caused by a compound called 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE).
In an experiment involving female rats, we discovered that nano-SM significantly reduced harmful liver enzymes and improved antioxidant levels compared to untreated rats.
This suggests that nano-SM could effectively protect the liver from cholestasis-related injury by enhancing the removal of bile acids and reducing inflammation.
Read More
8
Lipid balance and liver protection
Silybin A from reprograms lipid metabolism to induce a cell fate-dependent class switch from triglycerides to phospholipids.
We explored how silybin A, a key ingredient from silybum marianum, impacts liver health. Through studies on liver cells and mice, we discovered that silybin A effectively lowers triglyceride levels while boosting essential phospholipids, supporting a healthy lipid balance.
Our findings suggest that silybin offers protective benefits against liver damage, particularly in cases of mild metabolic imbalance. However, its effectiveness seems limited in more severe liver disease scenarios, highlighting the nuances of its liver-protective properties.
Read More
8
Silybum marianum aids liver health
Effect of alpha-lipoic acid and supplementation with a Mediterranean diet on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatosis.
We conducted a randomized, double-blind trial to explore the impact of a Silybum marianum (SM) and alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) formulation, combined with a Mediterranean diet, on liver health in those with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatosis.
Our findings showed that this combination can successfully reduce visceral fat and liver fat content over 24 weeks.
Although some patients experienced mild side effects, both treatment and control groups had similar results in this regard. Ultimately, SM-ALA alongside a Mediterranean diet may bring significant benefits to managing liver damage associated with metabolic disorders.
This product has helped my wife with liver disease more than any prescription drug. After her liver transplant, we struggled to manage high liver enzymes, but milk thistle significantly lowered them, surprising her transplant team.
Read More
9
Supports liver health
23 people found this helpful
The best product for maintaining a healthy liver! Milk Thistle, standardised to 80% Silymarin, in doses of around 600 mg per day provides therapeutic benefits, especially for liver disease conditions like alcohol-related liver disease and Hepatitis. It's crucial to consult a qualified physician for serious conditions. Standardised Milk Thistle is highly beneficial for those on prescription drugs or exposed to environmental toxins. I have used Nature's Way for five years, and although I believe they are top-notch, I often opt for Swanson due to its affordability. I take 3-4 capsules daily on an empty stomach to support my liver health.
Read More
9
Lowers cholesterol
15 people found this helpful
This great product for liver health contains milk thistle, which helps lower LDL cholesterol and reduces insulin resistance. It's also an antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory.
Read More
9
Liver enzymes stabilised
11 people found this helpful
I have autoimmune hepatitis, so keeping my liver enzymes controlled is essential. After taking three of these and combining them with ALA and turmeric, my liver enzymes have stabilised and are now perfectly healthy.
Read More
9
Maintained liver health
7 people found this helpful
I began taking Thisilyn to combat the side effects of antibiotics for Lyme disease. Since starting it, my liver tests have returned to normal. I’ve continued for over 10 years to maintain liver health.
Liver disease encompasses a variety of conditions that affect the liver's ability to function effectively. The liver is a vital organ responsible for many important tasks, including metabolizing nutrients, detoxifying harmful substances, and producing bile for digestion. Common forms of liver disease include hepatitis, fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Each of these conditions can significantly impact liver function and overall health, leading to symptoms that range from fatigue and jaundice to more serious complications requiring urgent medical attention.
The causes of liver disease are diverse and can include chronic alcohol abuse, viral infections, autoimmune disorders, and metabolic conditions like obesity and diabetes. Early detection is key to managing liver disease effectively, often involving lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes surgical interventions. Regular check-ups and liver function tests are recommended for individuals at higher risk, such as those with a family history of liver disease or those who lead certain lifestyle habits. Adopting a balanced diet and reducing alcohol intake can greatly aid in liver health and help prevent the onset of these conditions.
Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is a flowering herb that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, primarily derived from its active component silymarin. Silymarin is a complex of flavonoids predominantly extracted from the seeds of the milk thistle plant. This natural compound is well-regarded for its liver-protective qualities and antioxidant effects, which may help promote liver health and support detoxification processes. Additionally, studies suggest that silymarin can help regenerate liver cells and combat the adverse effects of toxins, making it a popular supplement among those seeking holistic wellness options.
Milk thistle silymarin is often marketed as a natural remedy for a variety of liver-related issues, including liver cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, and hepatitis. While some research supports its efficacy, results can vary, and it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially for individuals with pre-existing liver conditions or those taking other medications. Overall, silymarin from milk thistle is heralded for its potential health benefits, but further research is needed to establish its effectiveness comprehensively.
Milk thistle, particularly its active component silymarin, has long been touted as a natural remedy for various liver ailments. Some research suggests that silymarin may have hepatoprotective properties, which means it could help protect the liver from damage caused by toxins, alcohol, or other harmful substances. Additionally, there have been studies indicating that silymarin may improve liver function in those with liver diseases, including hepatitis and cirrhosis. However, while these findings are promising, they are not conclusive, and more rigorous research is necessary to fully understand the extent of its efficacy.
It's essential to approach milk thistle as a complementary treatment rather than a replacement for conventional medical therapies. If you or someone you know is considering milk thistle for liver disease, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional first. They can provide personalized advice based on individual health needs and circumstances, ensuring that any potential benefits are weighed against other treatments that may be necessary for effective management of liver disease.
Based on user reviews, individuals taking this supplement for liver disease often report varying timelines for seeing results. Some users have noted significant improvements in their liver health within just a few days of starting the supplement, particularly those who are closely monitoring their liver enzyme levels post-transplant or for conditions like Gilbert's syndrome Read Review. Others mention a more gradual improvement, taking several weeks of consistent use to observe notable changes in health markers or symptoms Read Review.
Additionally, long-term users indicate that continuous use over months or years has helped maintain their liver health and manage disease-related symptoms effectively Read Review. Overall, while some users see results quickly, others experience a gradual but steady improvement in liver function with consistent usage over time.
Scientific research supports the use of Silybum marianum (commonly known as milk thistle) for various liver diseases, showcasing its potential benefits, particularly through its active compound, silymarin. Multiple studies have indicated that silymarin has antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties, which may help in preserving liver health and enhancing liver function in conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis [4][8]. Furthermore, randomized trials have suggested that combining silymarin with other supplements, such as alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), alongside dietary changes can yield positive outcomes for those dealing with metabolic liver issues [2].
However, while the initial results are promising, the effectiveness of silymarin can vary based on dosage, formulation, and the specific type of liver condition being treated. Some studies have reported limited effects in more severe liver disease scenarios, indicating that further research is necessary to optimize treatment protocols [1][6]. Overall, silymarin appears to be a valuable option in managing liver health, but greater emphasis on dosage, bioavailability, and comprehensive study designs will be essential to fully understand its therapeutic potential [5].
Based on user reviews, many individuals report significant improvements in their liver health and related symptoms after using Thisilyn, particularly those with various liver diseases. For instance, one user noted that post-liver transplant, their wife experienced a dramatic reduction in liver enzymes, which even surprised the medical team Read Review. Another user, who has been taking the supplement for years, expressed that it helps maintain their liver disease tests within normal ranges and has been crucial for their overall health Read Review. Additionally, users have shared experiences of feeling "much better" and observing improved liver enzyme profiles with consistent use, with at least one reporting improvement just a week after starting the supplement Read ReviewRead Review.
Moreover, the product appears to be effective in alleviating various symptoms associated with liver conditions. Some users have noted improvements in digestion, reduced swelling, and even skin health improvements linked to their liver health Read ReviewRead Review. Despite these positive reports, individual results may vary, and it's always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice regarding liver health.
Users have reported positive experiences when combining Thisilyn, a milk thistle supplement, with other supplements for managing liver disease. One user mentioned that they took Thisilyn alongside "other detox products" and found it to effectively protect liver function, indicating a complementary benefit from this combination Read Review. Another review highlighted significant health improvements while following a nutritionist's guidance, suggesting that Thisilyn, when paired with other medications, contributed to decreased swelling and improved digestion, further supporting liver health Read Review.
However, some users emphasize the importance of individual responses, noting that while Thisilyn may work well on its own, the efficacy can be enhanced with additional supplements tailored to specific health circumstances, such as lecithin for better absorption Read Review. As always, users recommend consulting a healthcare provider for personalized advice before starting any new supplement regimen, as they can help optimize the combination of products based on individual liver health needs.
Users have shared various testimonials regarding the effective dosing of Milk Thistle Silymarin for treating liver disease, with many indicating that taking two tablets daily has yielded positive results. For instance, one user explicitly mentioned taking two tablets with each meal upon their doctor's recommendation, reporting substantial improvement in their overall well-being and liver function Read Review. Additionally, another user highlighted the importance of taking two tablets daily with lecithin to enhance absorption, which further underscores a common approach among users Read Review.
Several reviews also emphasize the significance of consistency in dosing, with users noting the long-term benefits of Milk Thistle Silymarin. One long-term user mentioned maintaining liver health for over a decade by incorporating the supplement into their regimen Read Review. Overall, user reports advocate for a dose around two tablets a day, suggesting this as a potentially beneficial starting point for those seeking to improve liver health.
9
Rapid skin improvement
4 people found this helpful
I have a skin condition linked to liver disease, and no other product has matched the effectiveness of this one. I see results within a few days, taking two tablets each morning.
9
Protective effects
This milk thistle extract supports normal liver function and its antioxidant properties protect the liver. I recommend it to everyone.
9
Maintained liver health
7 people found this helpful
I began taking Thisilyn to combat the side effects of antibiotics for Lyme disease. Since starting it, my liver tests have returned to normal. I’ve continued for over 10 years to maintain liver health.
9
Normalised liver enzymes
24 people found this helpful
This product has helped my wife with liver disease more than any prescription drug. After her liver transplant, we struggled to manage high liver enzymes, but milk thistle significantly lowered them, surprising her transplant team.
9
Normal liver tests
2 people found this helpful
Thisilyn, made in Germany, has been crucial in keeping my liver disease tests within a normal range for years. I received fresh caplets from iHerb, though it's a bit pricey.
7.5
Improved liver function
1 people found this helpful
I feel much better since I began taking this supplement, and my liver enzyme profile has improved.
9
Digestive improvement
1 people found this helpful
I'm pleased with my purchase! Recommended by my doctor, I've noticed improvements in my gastrointestinal function after a week, which has alleviated my liver disease symptoms.
7.5
Improved digestion
2 people found this helpful
I took Thisilyn, following a nutritionist's guidance, alongside other medications. I've seen a decrease in swelling and rashes, and my digestion has improved significantly.
9
Heartburn relief
1 people found this helpful
This milk thistle extract has greatly supported my liver. It has improved my liver detox, aided skin health, and even relieved my heartburn. Highly recommend!
7.5
Liver function protection
2 people found this helpful
I purchased this for my sister post-gallbladder removal. Together with other detox products, silymarin protects liver function. I take two daily with lecithin to enhance absorption.
7.5
Liver improvement
2 people found this helpful
This milk thistle, recommended by my doctor, has been helpful. I take two tablets with each meal. The supplement is tasteless and easy to swallow. I plan to take a blood test to gauge my liver improvement due to my liver disease, specifically Gilbert's syndrome. Overall, I feel much better! Thank you!
7
Silibinin shows promise for liver treatment
Novel Strategies Enhancing Bioavailability and Therapeutical Potential of Silibinin for Treatment of Liver Disorders.
We explored the therapeutic potential of silibinin, a key component of milk thistle extract, for treating liver disorders. Research has shown that silibinin can protect liver cells from damage and support tissue regeneration due to its antioxidant properties.
However, its effectiveness is limited by poor solubility and bioavailability. Innovative derivatives like silibinin-C-2',3-dihydrogen succinate and silibinin-phosphatidylcholine are being developed to enhance its effects. Despite promising initial findings, a thorough understanding of how silibinin works is still needed before it can be fully harnessed for liver disease treatment.
7
Silymarin shows promise for liver health
Silymarin: Unveiling its pharmacological spectrum and therapeutic potential in liver diseases-A comprehensive narrative review.
We explored the effects of silymarin, a natural compound derived from milk thistle, on various liver diseases like cirrhosis and fatty liver. Through extensive clinical trials, we observed that silymarin has impressive antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties, which can help prevent further liver damage and reduce symptoms in patients. This herbal remedy shows promise in improving liver function and has a good safety record with mild side effects. Overall, silymarin stands out as a beneficial option in managing liver health.
8
Silybum marianum aids liver health
Effect of alpha-lipoic acid and supplementation with a Mediterranean diet on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatosis.
We conducted a randomized, double-blind trial to explore the impact of a Silybum marianum (SM) and alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) formulation, combined with a Mediterranean diet, on liver health in those with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatosis.
Our findings showed that this combination can successfully reduce visceral fat and liver fat content over 24 weeks.
Although some patients experienced mild side effects, both treatment and control groups had similar results in this regard. Ultimately, SM-ALA alongside a Mediterranean diet may bring significant benefits to managing liver damage associated with metabolic disorders.
8
Lipid balance and liver protection
Silybin A from reprograms lipid metabolism to induce a cell fate-dependent class switch from triglycerides to phospholipids.
We explored how silybin A, a key ingredient from silybum marianum, impacts liver health. Through studies on liver cells and mice, we discovered that silybin A effectively lowers triglyceride levels while boosting essential phospholipids, supporting a healthy lipid balance.
Our findings suggest that silybin offers protective benefits against liver damage, particularly in cases of mild metabolic imbalance. However, its effectiveness seems limited in more severe liver disease scenarios, highlighting the nuances of its liver-protective properties.
8
Potential of silymarin in liver disease
Silymarin as an Antioxidant Therapy in Chronic Liver Diseases: A Comprehensive Review.
We explored the role of silymarin, a compound from milk thistle, as an antioxidant treatment for chronic liver diseases like hepatitis and cirrhosis. Through a thorough review of clinical studies, we found that silymarin shows promise for protecting the liver and may help improve liver function in patients with these conditions.
However, while the results are hopeful, more research is necessary to determine the best dosage, long-term safety, and potential interactions with other medications. This review highlights silymarin's potential and sets the stage for future research on its clinical application.
8
Silymarin showed enhanced liver protection
Evaluating the therapeutic effect of different forms of silymarin on liver status and expression of some genes involved in fat metabolism, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory in older laying hens.
We explored how different forms of silymarin, derived from milk thistle seeds, affect liver health in older hens. In a study with 70 hens, various treatments were given over 12 weeks, including control groups.
We found that higher doses of nano-silymarin and lecithinized silymarin showed significant benefits, such as improved liver enzyme activity and decreased fatty liver symptoms. However, silymarin was less effective at lower doses, which indicates that careful dosing is crucial for optimal results in managing liver issues.
References
Koeberle SC, Thürmer M, Su F, Werner M, Grander J, et al. Silybin A from reprograms lipid metabolism to induce a cell fate-dependent class switch from triglycerides to phospholipids. Theranostics. 2025;15:2006. doi:10.7150/thno.99562
Cano Contreras AD, Del Rocío Francisco M, Vargas Basurto JL, Gonzalez-Gomez KD, Amieva-Balmori M, et al. Effect of alpha-lipoic acid and supplementation with a Mediterranean diet on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatosis. World J Hepatol. 2025;17:101704. doi:10.4254/wjh.v17.i1.101704
Shaker MK, Hassany M, Eysa B, Adel A, Zidan A, et al. The activity of a herbal medicinal product of Phyllanthus niruri and Silybum marianum powdered extracts (Heptex®) in patients with apparent risk factors for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis: a phase II, multicentered, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. BMC Complement Med Ther. 2025;25:8. doi:10.1186/s12906-024-04692-y
Selc M, Macova R, Babelova A. Novel Strategies Enhancing Bioavailability and Therapeutical Potential of Silibinin for Treatment of Liver Disorders. Drug Des Devel Ther. 2024;18:4629. doi:10.2147/DDDT.S483140
Faryadi S, Sheikhahmadi A, Farhadi A, Nourbakhsh H. Evaluating the therapeutic effect of different forms of silymarin on liver status and expression of some genes involved in fat metabolism, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory in older laying hens. Vet Med Sci. 2024;10:e70025. doi:10.1002/vms3.70025
Dhande D, Dhok A, Anjankar A, Nagpure S. Silymarin as an Antioxidant Therapy in Chronic Liver Diseases: A Comprehensive Review. Cureus. 2024;16:e67083. doi:10.7759/cureus.67083
Li BY, Xi Y, Liu YP, Wang D, Wang C, et al. Effects of Silybum marianum, Pueraria lobate, combined with Salvia miltiorrhiza tablets on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in adults: A triple-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Clin Nutr ESPEN. 2024;63:2. doi:10.1016/j.clnesp.2024.06.003
Jaffar HM, Al-Asmari F, Khan FA, Rahim MA, Zongo E. Silymarin: Unveiling its pharmacological spectrum and therapeutic potential in liver diseases-A comprehensive narrative review. Food Sci Nutr. 2024;12:3097. doi:10.1002/fsn3.4010
Okiljević B, Martić N, Govedarica S, Andrejić Višnjić B, Bosanac M, et al. Cardioprotective and Hepatoprotective Potential of Silymarin in Paracetamol-Induced Oxidative Stress. Pharmaceutics. 2024;16. doi:10.3390/pharmaceutics16040520
Wang X, Jin Y, Di C, Zeng Y, Zhou Y, et al. Supplementation of Silymarin Alone or in Combination with Salvianolic Acids B and Puerarin Regulates Gut Microbiota and Its Metabolism to Improve High-Fat Diet-Induced NAFLD in Mice. Nutrients. 2024;16. doi:10.3390/nu16081169
Salem MB, Mohammed DM, Hammam OA, Elzallat M. Mitigation of intrahepatic cholestasis induced by 17α-ethinylestradiol via nanoformulation of Silybum marianum L. BMC Complement Med Ther. 2024;24:51. doi:10.1186/s12906-024-04351-2
Singla RK, Singh D, Verma R, Kaushik D, Echeverría J, et al. Fermented formulation of Silybum marianum seeds: Optimization, heavy metal analysis, and hepatoprotective assessment. Phytomedicine. 2024;124:155286. doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155286
Calderon Martinez E, Herrera D, Mogan S, Hameed Z, Jangda AA, et al. Impact of Silymarin Supplements on Liver Enzyme Levels: A Systematic Review. Cureus. 2023;15:e47608. doi:10.7759/cureus.47608
Ma X, Yu X, Li R, Cui J, Yu H, et al. Berberine-silybin salt achieves improved anti-nonalcoholic fatty liver disease effect through regulating lipid metabolism. J Ethnopharmacol. 2024;319:117238. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2023.117238
Talebi A, Soltani R, Khorvash F, Jouabadi SM. The Effectiveness of Silymarin in the Prevention of Anti-tuberculosis Drug-induced Hepatotoxicity: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. Int J Prev Med. 2023;14:48. doi:10.4103/ijpvm.ijpvm_81_22
Ghodousi M, Karbasforooshan H, Arabi L, Elyasi S. Silymarin as a preventive or therapeutic measure for chemotherapy and radiotherapy-induced adverse reactions: a comprehensive review of preclinical and clinical data. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 2023;79:15. doi:10.1007/s00228-022-03434-8